Artwork
Nathaniel Potter
Nathaniel Potter is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
This small print shows a man in a dark coat. He faces left with a serious look. The artist used fine lines to shade his face and coat, making it look three-dimensional.
The print is tiny—just over two inches square. It was made in 1804 using a technique called mezzotint, where artists rough up a metal plate to create soft shadows.
Look for another portrait by Saint-Mémin, Charles B. J. Févret de.
Overview
This small print, 'Nathaniel Potter', is a portrait created by Charles B. J. Févret de Saint-Mémin in 1804 using mezzotint and engraving techniques on wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a man, Nathaniel Potter, dressed in a dark coat, facing left with a serious expression. The artist's use of shading techniques creates a three-dimensional effect.
Technique & Style
The print measures 5.56 × 5.56 cm and showcases the mezzotint technique, where a metal plate is roughened to achieve soft shadows, resulting in a detailed and nuanced representation of the subject.
History & Provenance
The print is part of the Corcoran Collection, indicating its historical significance and preservation.
Artist & collection
Artist
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin
Charles Balthazar Julien Févret de Saint-Mémin (French pronunciation: ; 1770–1852) was a French portrait painter and museum director.
